Anthropology and Osteology

Anthropology and osteology play a fundamental role during the retrieval of cadavers or unidentified human remains, particularly as concerns identification. This chapter briefly surveys anthropological methods used for building the biological profile of unidentified human remains/skeletons. At times pathologists may be well trained in osteology; if this is not the case the pathologist should seek the help of an expert anthropologist or osteologist used to working in the forensic scenario. The chapter shows how osteology and anthropology may be fundamental for the identification not only of skeletal remains but also of burnt, decomposed or dismembered cadavers. The role of the anthropologist may be fundamental also in the recovery of such remains. A proper scene of crime investigation in cases of skeletal remains guarantees a complete and adequate recovery when done by an expert osteologist.